Chris Stark: The economics of clean energy ‘just get better and better’
Chris Stark sets out a clear case for the UK’s push to decarbonise its power system by 2030, describing it as a deliberate “sprint” to build the clean electricity backbone needed for economy-wide electrification. He argues that the economics of renewables continue to improve, with offshore wind and solar costs falling through competitive auctions, while fossil fuel volatility exposes households and industry to persistent price shocks.
Central to the plan is reforming grid connections to prioritise projects that are ready to build, accelerating transmission upgrades, and ensuring storage and flexibility are deployed alongside new generation. Stark acknowledges the scale of upfront investment and political resistance, but maintains that electrifying transport, heating, and industry will ultimately lower system costs, boost productivity, and strengthen energy security. In his view, clean power is not simply a climate policy but the foundation of a modern “electrostate” economy that the UK must embrace to remain competitive in a rapidly shifting global market.
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